This 1966 Chevrolet C10 VIN Verification was done by our team member in Menifee, Ca. on
11-20-2025
This 1966 Chevrolet C10 VIN Verification was done by our team member in Menifee, Ca. on
11-20-2025
The 1966 Chevrolet C10 is one of the most recognizable classic pickups of the 1960s, known for its clean styling, reliable drivetrain options, and comfortable ride. As the final year of the first-generation “Action Line” trucks, the 1966 model represents a refined and highly desirable version of Chevrolet’s half-ton pickup.
Chevrolet introduced the C/K truck line in 1960, marking a major shift toward more car-like comfort and drivability in pickups. By 1966, Chevy had refined the platform with improved suspension, updated styling, and better engine options. This year stands out for its unique grille design and other subtle revisions, closing out the first generation before the major redesign of 1967.
The C10, with its ½-ton payload rating and rear-wheel-drive layout, became a favorite among farmers, tradesmen, and families alike.
The 1966 C10 offered a variety of engines tailored to different needs:
Inline-Six Engines:
250 cu in (4.1L) I6 — around 155 hp
292 cu in (4.8L) I6 — stronger torque for heavy-duty use
V8 Options:
283 cu in (4.6L) small-block V8 — approx. 175–195 hp
327 cu in (5.4L) small-block V8 — up to around 220 hp
Transmissions:
3-speed manual (column shift)
4-speed manual
2-speed Powerglide automatic (optional)
Known for their durability, these engines made the C10 a dependable workhorse with surprisingly good road manners for the era.
The 1966 C10 is praised for its timeless, straightforward styling:
Distinctive one-year-only horizontal bar grille
Curved windshield and clean body lines
Steel bed options (Fleetside or Stepside)
Optional Custom Cab trim with additional brightwork
Inside, the truck offered simple but functional features:
Padded dashboard (optional)
Improved gauge cluster
Vinyl bench seating
Heater/defroster standard on most models
Suspension comfort came from Chevy’s coil-spring setup, a major advancement over leaf-spring competitors.
The 1966 C10 lineup included:
Base Model — simple work-focused configuration
Custom Cab — chrome trim, better interior materials, upgraded steering wheel
Fleetside — smooth, slab-sided bed design
Stepside — traditional fendered bed with exposed steps
Special factory configurations included long bed, short bed, and heavy-duty axle options.
While primitive compared to modern trucks, the ’66 C10 included:
Dual-circuit brakes in later production (varies by equipment)
Hydraulic drum brakes on all wheels
Laminated windshield
Optional seatbelts (not yet required by federal law)
No electronic safety features were available.
Fuel economy varied by engine and axle ratio:
Typical Range: 12–17 mpg
The inline-six engines offered better efficiency, while V8 options traded economy for power.
In 1966, the Chevrolet C10 competed against:
Ford F-100
Dodge D100
International Harvester pickups
The C10 stood apart for its smooth coil-spring ride, broad engine choices, and strong build quality, giving it a more refined feel compared to rivals.
Original 1966 MSRP: Roughly $2,000–$2,500 depending on configuration
Current Market Value:
Driver-quality trucks: $12,000–$22,000
Restored examples: $25,000–$45,000
Highly customized or show-quality builds: $50,000+
Regarded today as one of the most collectible classic Chevrolet pickups
A frequent favorite at classic truck shows and auctions
Known for its durability and modification potential, making it a top choice among restorers and custom builders